Political correspondent
The United States and Saudi Arabia have signed a landmark civilian nuclear cooperation agreement, often referred to as a “123 Agreement,” paving the way for the kingdom to develop a nuclear energy program with US technology. The deal could eventually allow Saudi Arabia to enrich uranium domestically under agreed safeguards, though it still requires review by the US Congress.
The agreement is intended to strengthen US Saudi strategic ties, support Saudi Arabia’s energy diversification goals, and create major opportunities for US nuclear companies. However, it has drawn criticism from non proliferation experts and some lawmakers, who warn that allowing uranium enrichment could increase the risk of a regional nuclear arms race, particularly given tensions with Iran.
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